The Young and Emerging Leaders Project (YELP) Class of 2024, on 25th May, proudly convened for their inaugural seminar, marking the beginning of a transformative year-long journey. The seminar was a vibrant gathering of 15 exceptional fellows from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Somalia, and Zambia. This diverse cohort, united by their shared commitment to leadership and community development, embarked on their fellowship with enthusiasm and purpose.
Introduction to the LéO Africa Institute and Network
Awel Uwihanganye, the visionary behind the LéO Africa Institute, welcomed the new fellows and introduced them to the LéO Africa Network. He elaborated on the Institute’s mission to nurture and empower the next generation of African leaders.
Induction into the prestigious LéO Africa Network awaits those who complete the fellowship, with a formal graduation ceremony scheduled to take place in Uganda in November.
Awel Uwihanganye
The Check-In Session: Building Deep Connections
One of the highlights of the inaugural seminar was the “check-in session,” an intimate and revealing exercise designed to foster deep connections among the fellows. Each participant was given 5 to 10 minutes to speak about themselves in a candid and personal manner. This session was structured to allow fellows to share their backgrounds, interests, vocations, biases, strengths and weaknesses, as well as their life’s highs and lows, and their aspirations for the future.
The check-in session offered several significant benefits. For instance, by sharing personal stories and vulnerabilities, fellows began to build a foundation of trust and mutual respect. This openness set the tone for genuine collaboration as well as understanding diverse perspectives.
Fellows gained insights into the diverse experiences and viewpoints within their cohort, fostering empathy and understanding. This diversity is crucial for developing well-rounded and inclusive leadership skills.
Identifying Common Goals – The session helped fellows identify shared goals and interests, laying the groundwork for potential collaborations and joint initiatives during and beyond the fellowship. The check-in session encourages fellows to speak about their strengths and weaknesses throwing them into self-reflection, a vital component of personal and professional growth.
The fellowship has since inception fostered creation of a support network for understanding each other’s highs and lows and fellows began to form a supportive network, crucial for navigating the challenges and celebrating the successes of their leadership journeys.
Looking ahead, the YELP Class of 2024 is poised for a year of profound learning and growth. As they embark on this journey, they carry with them the collective support of the faculty and the broader LéO Africa Network. The inaugural seminar has set a solid foundation for what promises to be a transformative experience, equipping these emerging leaders with the skills, knowledge, and connections necessary to drive positive change across the continent.
The fellows will reconvene on the weekend of 9th June 2024.
